Your ultimate guide to surviving Januworry

Updated Jan. 1, 2025, 9:46 p.m. | By East Coast Breakfast / Skyye Ndlovu

Beat the Januworry blues with this ultimate guide to surviving the longest month of the year.

Empty wallet — Suriyawut Suriya / iStock

January – the Monday of months. With the festive season being a distant memory and our wallets close to empty, this is about to be the longest month of the year. However, fear not – you’re not alone.

Januworry doesn’t have to be boring and stressful. This guide will get you through the month, with your sanity and bank account intact.

1. Beach, please

Why spend money when you’ve got the ocean at your doorstep? Durban’s beaches are the ultimate budget-friendly hangout. With all the December tourists leaving, it’s the perfect time to pack a towel, and snacks from home, and enjoy some sun, sea, and sand.

2. Bunny Chow budgeting

Skip the fancy restaurants this month and hit up your local corner shop for a hearty, affordable curry fix. Half a loaf is filling, delicious, and easy on the bank account. Plus, it’s practically a Durban rite of passage.

3. Home’s where the party’s at

Host a chill day at home with board games, a braai, or a movie marathon. Got a garden? Turn it into a DIY picnic spot. Find a chilled Spotify playlist and some ice-cold Oros, and you’ve got the perfect Durban vibe. No big bucks are needed.

4. Walk it off

Durban’s warm weather is ideal for walking, hiking, or cycling. Explore the promenade, tackle Giba Gorge, or take a relaxing stroll around the Umgeni River Bird Park. It’s free, it’s fun, and it’ll help work off those festive season calories you gained.

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5. Plan like a pro

Start the year with a solid budget. Write down what you actually need (groceries, electricity, petrol) versus what you think you need (that overpriced Instagram smoothie). Stick to the list, and let January’s mantra be: “Do I really need this?”

6. Level up those leftovers

Turn your festive leftovers into gourmet meals. Roast chicken becomes chicken curry, veggies become stir-fry, and yesterday’s rice can turn into fried rice! January is your chance to channel your inner MasterChef without blowing your budget.

7. Free fun around Durban

This city is buzzing with free or low-cost events. Whether it’s outdoor yoga at the promenade or live music at Suncoast, there’s plenty to do without opening your wallet. Follow local event pages to stay updated and make the most of Durban’s vibrant culture.

8. Pack a lunch

Forget buying a fancy lunch at the office. Channel your meal-prep skills and pack your own food. Leftover bunny chow? Winning. A simple sandwich and fruit combo? Perfect. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also avoid the lunchtime queues, which is a win for your wallet and your sanity.

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Surviving January in Durban is all about embracing what’s already around you – the beaches, the vibe, and the local gems. With a little creativity and budgeting, you’ll sail through the month without breaking a sweat or your bank.

And if all else fails? Grab a towel, hit the beach, and remind yourself that payday is only a few weeks away. After all, its almost impossible to be stressed with sand between your toes!